Red river hog

The red river hog, also known as the bush pig, is a captivating wild pig species native to Africa. These animals are commonly found in the lush Guinean and Congolese forests. Their distinct appearance is highlighted by vibrant orange to reddish-brown fur and striking white markings on their faces and bodies. Adult red river hogs generally weigh between 45 to 115 kg and stand about 55 to 80 cm tall. They also feature long tails and ears adorned with tufts of hair at the ends.

Red river hogs inhabit rainforests, wet savannas, and forested valleys near rivers, lakes, and marshes. As omnivores, their diet comprises roots, tubers, fruits, insects, and even small animals. They are primarily nocturnal or crepuscular, active during the night or twilight hours, and tend to live in small groups led by a dominant male.

Breeding for red river hogs typically occurs between the end of the dry season and the middle of the rainy season. Females give birth to litters of up to six piglets, which are born dark brown with yellowish stripes. The piglets are weaned after about four months and reach full maturity around two years of age.

Communication among red river hogs involves various vocalizations, and they maintain a complex social structure within their groups. In the wild, they have a lifespan of approximately fifteen years. Although different subspecies of red river hogs were once proposed, currently no subspecies are officially recognized.